Skipjack Nathan Outdoors Delmarva
April 22, 2024
Our 2025 sailing season kicks off when crew and volunteers rig the Nathan on Saturday, March 22, at 9:00 am. Our rain date is Sunday, March 23, at 1:00 pm. During April, the returning crew will become reacquainted, especially since a new mast was built and installed over the winter. We also begin dockside training with new volunteers interested in learning to sail Nathan of Dorchester. Initially, this is a mentoring process with volunteers and experienced trainers working closely.
Training to be a sail crew is very intensive. We begin training “under sail” with new volunteers in mid-April. Twice a week, there are two-hour training sessions, each with identified learning goals per the syllabus. Everyone learns to tie knots “the Nathan way.” The crew also learns to raise and lower the mainsail and jib as a team. This is a very physical boat, as there are no winches. We practice sailing maneuvers with standardized commands and in varying weather conditions. Time is dedicated to safety and emergency drills to keep crew and passengers safe. First Aid/CPR training is required for every sail crew member. New sail crew volunteers are also required to have a boater safety certificate.
Other members learn how to be docents, helping to ensure the best passenger experience with passenger care and maritime history. Online learning, as well as mentoring from experienced docents, is started at the end of April.
Our passenger services volunteers will be available online and by telephone to help book and greet passengers throughout the season. They are often the first contact with potential passengers.
The Nathan of Dorchester leaves the dock about 100 times a season. Most of the sails are two hours long and, weather permitting, include an oyster dredging demonstration, which is always the highlight.
Opportunities to learn about the volunteer needs of this fantastic organization are:
Saturday, March 15, 10 am-12 pm – Meet & Greet, Dorchester Historical Society
Tuesday, March 18, 6:00- 7:30 pm – Meeting, The Packing House
Saturday, March 22, 10 am-12 pm – Meet & Greet, Up Rigging Long Wharf
